James Cook, a graduate of our BSc (Hons) Sound, Light and Live Event Technology programme, has built a successful career as a self-employed sound engineer and theatre sound designer. His journey from freelancing and working his way up in the theatre world to managing his own business, Warehouse Digital, reflects his adaptability and expertise. With a blend of theatre, corporate AV, and video work, James’ career highlights include winning an industry award for his work on a major production and also growing his reputation in the industry. His success underscores the value of Derby’s practical, hands-on approach to education.
James Cook, Class of 2013
Hometown:
Ipswich
Current location:
Ipswich
Current job + employer:
Self Employed Sound Engineer & Theatre Sound Designer, Managing Director Warehouse Digital Ltd.
What did you do/study prior to coming to Derby?
A levels Maths, Physics, IT
Why did you choose to go to the University of Derby?
I really liked the course content, and the open day was great.
Did you start the course with a specific focus or were you undecided?
I hadn’t specifically decided to work in theatre when I started the course – the course is pretty niche anyway, so it was definitely the area I wanted to work in.
Did that focus change on the course? If so, how?
I picked up theatre work during studying, so that is what my job turned into.
Has that focus changed on graduating? If so, how?
Slightly. I now do a mix of theatre, corporate AV and video work.
What was the most useful thing you learned on the course?
I learned a lot, but one of the most useful things was how small the industry is, and how to approach/speak to peers in the industry.
What did you learn on the course that you thought you’d never use, but that has come in handy during your career?
A general understanding of how stuff actually works on a scientific level has gone a long way to being able to effectively troubleshoot and also teach others.
What did you do on the course that you never thought you would enjoy?
I’m not sure to be honest. I was hoping I would enjoy it all – and I did, apart from the essay writing! I suppose I hadn’t done much with pro video kit, and actually enjoyed playing with that.
What was your favourite establishment in Derby (pub, bar, club, restaurant, etc.)?
Wherever there was cold beer.
What is your most memorable moment from Derby?
I think probably how involved the tutors were, and how down to earth they were – joining in with the fun & banter and becoming another member of the team, rather than someone just there to lecture at you.
What/who at Derby most influenced your life, and how/why?
I think the age range on the course that bought with it experience ‘on and off the pitch’ was a great way to learn more about life – this was the first time living away from home for an extended period of time, and those on the course helped with all of that.
What would you say to a Derby first year student, knowing what you know now?
Get involved, ask questions and break things (then try and fix them).
What have you done professionally since graduating?
I spent a few years freelancing around the local area and built up some long lasting relationships with local companies. Whilst doing this, I worked my way ‘up the ranks’ in the theatre world, crewing shows, sound #2 and then opping shows right through to today where I am an award winning sound designer. Whilst working on this, I have a steady stream of corporate AV jobs happening around it, and a few longer stints in a local theatre as a full time employee. I am now freelancing again, continuing to sound design, and now co-run a video production company Warehouse Digital with a friend from the theatre world – specialising in cinematic theatre trailers and promo videos.
Have any Derby alumni or staff opened any doors for you? If so, who?
Having a network of friends and alumni after graduating has helped with the occasional job opportunity. People always need people they can trust on jobs, and having gone through uni with them, helps. I’ve found the course has a great reputation out in the real world – ‘oh, you were on SLLET too?’ sort of gives a basic understanding that this person knows what they’re doing if you’ve just met them on a job.
What is your most memorable moment from your career so far?
Being nominated for the first panto award, and winning it – completely out of the blue!
What are your future career plans/ambitions?
To continue sound design, and pick up bigger shows, and to grow the video business.